Marriage laws in the United States vary widely from state to state, especially when it comes to marrying a cousin. If you’re wondering about the legality of cousin marriage in Colorado, here’s a detailed look at what the law says, the context behind it, and what it means for residents and those considering marriage in the state.
First Cousin Marriage in Colorado: Legal Status
In Colorado, it is entirely legal to marry your first cousin. There are no restrictions, conditions, or special requirements that apply specifically to first cousin marriages in the state. This means that, unlike in some other states where cousin marriage is either outright banned or only permitted under certain circumstances (such as age or infertility), Colorado law is clear and permissive on this issue.
The Routt County, Colorado official website explicitly states: “Marriage between cousins is permitted in Colorado”. Legal experts and family law resources in the state confirm that there are no additional hoops to jump through if you wish to marry your first cousin—Colorado treats these marriages the same as any other.
What Marriages Are Prohibited in Colorado?
While Colorado law is permissive about cousin marriage, it does place clear prohibitions on other types of familial relationships. According to state law, you may not marry:
- An ancestor or descendant (parent/child, grandparent/grandchild)
- A sibling (brother or sister)
- An uncle or aunt with a niece or nephew (unless permitted by the established customs of aboriginal cultures)
- Anyone who is currently married or in a civil union with someone else (bigamy is prohibited)
These prohibitions are absolute and do not depend on whether the relationship is by half-blood or whole-blood, or whether either party is able to bear children.
How Does Colorado Compare to Other States?
Colorado is among 18 states (plus the District of Columbia) where first cousin marriage is fully legal. In contrast, 24 states prohibit first cousin marriages, and eight states allow it only under certain conditions, such as age or infertility. For example:
- Arizona: Only if both parties are 65 or older, or one is infertile
- Illinois: Only if both parties are 50 or older, or one is infertile
- Maine: Allowed with proof of genetic counseling
Colorado stands out for its lack of such stipulations, making it a destination for some out-of-state couples seeking to marry legally.
Legal Requirements for Marriage in Colorado
Aside from familial restrictions, Colorado’s general marriage requirements are straightforward:
- Both parties must be at least 18 years old (or at least 16 with parental/guardian consent)
- Neither party can be currently married or in a civil union with someone else
- The marriage must not fall under any of the prohibited categories listed above
If a marriage is entered into that is prohibited by law, it is considered void and subject to annulment (legally termed as a “declaration of invalidity of marriage” in Colorado).
Cultural and Social Context
While legal, cousin marriage is not particularly common in Colorado or across the United States. Social attitudes vary, and the practice is far less widespread than in some other cultures or countries. Still, the law is clear: there are no legal barriers to first cousin marriage in Colorado, and such unions are recognized and treated the same as any other marriage under state law.
Colorado Cousin Marriage Law
| Relationship | Legal to Marry in Colorado? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First Cousin | Yes | No restrictions or special requirements |
| Sibling | No | Prohibited |
| Aunt/Uncle-Niece/Nephew | No | Prohibited, except for some aboriginal customs |
| Ancestor/Descendant | No | Prohibited |
| Second Cousin | Yes | No restrictions |
It is not illegal to marry your cousin in Colorado. The state allows first cousin marriages without any special conditions, making it one of the more permissive states in the U.S. on this issue. If you are considering marrying your cousin in Colorado, you can do so legally, provided you meet the standard requirements for marriage in the state
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States
- https://www.graham.law/blog/marry-your-cousin-colorado-family-marriage/
- https://k99.com/cousin-marriage-colorado/
- https://www.co.routt.co.us/328/Prohibited-Marriages
- https://kekbfm.com/colorado-marry-your-cousin/
